Have You Changed the Filter on Your Furnace Lately?

Here’s Why You Should Do It Today

Fall is a great time to think about the air quality in your home—especially since you’ll be spending more time indoors. Cleaning or replacing your air filters is an easy way to eliminate or reduce dust, mold and other allergens, and keep your heating equipment running well, too.

Why? A dirty filter can lead to problems. It can restrict air flow, making your system work harder to heat your home—using more fuel and increasing energy costs as a result. Because the filter protects your heating equipment from dirt and dust, it also helps prevent problems that can lead to a breakdown—and an expensive repair. The bottom line: Changing the filter on your furnace is an easy way to save money while keeping your home more comfortable.

So, how often should you change your furnace filter? As usual, it depends on a variety of factors, most importantly the size and type of filter and the efficiency rating of your heating equipment. If you have furry family members, you will likely need to replace your filter more often. Generally, the thicker the filter, the longer it will last. Replace 1- to 2-inch filters every 1 to 3 months, 3- to 4-inch filters every 6 to 9 months, and 5- to 6-inch filters every 9 to 12 months.

How to Replace Your Furnace Filter

Not sure if your filter needs to be changed? Turn off your furnace, remove the filter, and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see light, it’s dirty and you need to change it. If you’ve never replaced the filter in your furnace, don’t worry: It’s easy. And it’s not even messy if you do it regularly! Here’s how, in four easy steps:

1. Locate the filter rack: Usually, it’s installed at the return or at the entrance to the blower chamber.
2. Slide the filter out: If you need to pull, check for a locking mechanism and disengage it. Disposable filters have a cardboard frame. If your filter has a metal or plastic frame, it is most likely washable.
3. Replace the filter: Look for the arrow pointing to the direction of air flow. Make sure you install the filter the right way (towards the blower).
4. Secure the door or filter rack: re-engage the locking mechanism. That’s it. Good job!

Not sure what type of filter or the size you need? Just ask us. Some filters can be washed or vacuumed and reused—check the manufacturer’s instructions. Pleated filters can go longer before changes: Put a reminder in your calendar so you don’t forget.

Ignoring your furnace filters can damage your furnace and shorten its lifespan. Additionally, the harder your furnace works, struggling to push that heat into your home, the more energy it uses. The more energy your furnace uses, the more it costs each month.

Our team of experienced pros is happy to answer your questions—and if you have been postponing, it’s never too late to schedule your tune-up. We’ll change your filter, and make sure everything is running properly before the real cold weather hits. Contact us today.